Wakefield Trinity will host Leigh Leopards in the first Super League play-off fixtures on Friday, with the eliminator phase set to open the 2026 play-offs. It is a significant milestone for Wakefield, who have gone from battling at the bottom of the table to finishing fourth and securing their highest-ever Super League finish.
The club’s rise has been even more notable given the short timeline. Wakefield won the Championship League Leaders' Shield in 2024, returned to Super League in 2025 and then clinched a top-six place and a play-off spot at the first time of asking. Now they get home advantage in a knockout game that will test whether their progress can continue under pressure.
Powell proud of the organisation
Daryl Powell said he is proud of the organisation behind Wakefield’s climb, pointing to work done in several areas rather than just one part of the club. He said it comes from “a lot of different people,” including recruitment with Ste Mills and the coaching team, which he described as “like a band of brothers almost.”
Powell also praised the players, saying the playing group have been outstanding. His wider message was clear: the aim is not simply to enjoy one good season, but to build Wakefield into a consistent top-four club.
That is what makes this meeting with Leigh Leopards especially interesting. Leigh were previously described as fighting to remain in Super League, so both clubs have reached this stage after recent periods where they were viewed very differently. Wakefield’s home game in the first round gives them a chance to underline how far they have come, while Leigh arrive with their own point to prove.
For Wakefield, the next step is straightforward. They have already shown they can move quickly from outsider status to contender status. Now they have to show they can stay there.
